Monkey
The Monkey (猴, Hóu) is the ninth animal in the Chinese Zodiac. It represents intelligence, agility, and mischief. In Chinese culture, Monkeys are known for being inventive, lively, and clever, often standing out in any crowd.
People born in the Year of the Monkey are quick thinkers, full of ideas and enthusiasm. They often charm others with their humor, confidence, and charisma—but they can also be unpredictable and impulsive.
Monkey Zodiac Years
You are likely a Monkey if you were born in one of these years:
Monkey Years: 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028…
Reminder: Chinese zodiac years follow the lunar calendar, so if you’re born in January or early February, check the specific Lunar New Year date for accuracy.
Monkey Personality Traits
| Strengths | Challenges |
|---|---|
| Intelligent and curious | Can be mischievous or deceptive |
| Energetic and fun-loving | Prone to restlessness or boredom |
| Clever and creative | May lack patience or discipline |
| Sociable and persuasive | Tends to take risks or push boundaries |
Monkeys are natural innovators and entertainers. Their minds move fast, and they enjoy exploring new ideas, meeting people, and tackling challenges—often with a playful spirit.
Monkey Compatibility
| Most Compatible | Least Compatible |
|---|---|
| Rat, Dragon, Snake | Tiger, Pig |
- Best Match: Rat – A mentally stimulating and energetic duo
- Great Team: Dragon – Dynamic and ambitious, with mutual admiration
- Challenging Pair: Tiger – Too competitive and headstrong together
Lucky Signs for Monkeys
| Element | Lucky Numbers | Lucky Colors | Lucky Flowers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal (common) | 4, 9 | White, gold, blue | Chrysanthemum, crape myrtle |
Lucky Directions: North and Northwest
Each Monkey year is also associated with a Five Element (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, or Water), affecting specific traits and fortunes.
The Monkey in Chinese Culture
- The Monkey is a beloved figure in Chinese folklore, especially known through Sun Wukong, the Monkey King in the classic novel Journey to the West—a character who is brave, rebellious, and full of magical tricks.
- The Monkey symbolizes wit, resourcefulness, and transformation.
- In the Zodiac Race Legend, the Monkey teamed up with the Goat and Rooster to build a raft and finished ninth—showcasing teamwork and intelligence.
Best Careers for Monkey-Born People
Monkeys succeed in roles that offer variety, creativity, and social interaction, such as:
- Media, advertising, and public relations
- Entertainment, acting, or comedy
- Technology, invention, or entrepreneurship
- Journalism and investigative work
- Education or teaching
They thrive in stimulating, ever-changing environments that challenge their minds and keep them engaged.
If you’re born in the Year of the Monkey, your strengths lie in your intelligence, creativity, and charm. You’re always a step ahead, whether solving problems or telling jokes. Just remember: your energy and brilliance are most powerful when balanced with focus and compassion.